What is a Terpene? Why They are Important to Your Cannabis

Terpenes, in their simplest definition, are aromatic oils that provide unique taste and smell characteristics throughout the botanical world. That’s right, these are not unique to cannabis. All plants, herbs and fruits have unique terpene profiles which is what creates the differences in taste and smell. Over 200 different terpenes have been discovered and they’re considered safe to consume by the FDA. There are 12 important terpenes most commonly found in cannabis.

In the cannabis plant, the terpenes are produced in the same glands as the other major compounds like THC, CBD, etc. These glands are referred to as trichomes. The reason they are important is because when they are inhaled or ingested alongside cannabinoids, they interact with the endocannabinoid system to facilitate the onset of your high. One terpene called Myrcene is produced in high concentrations in mangoes, which is why some people may tell you eating them will boost your high. The science behind this very real pro-tip is that Myrcene increases cell permeability, which makes for faster absorption of THC, CBD, and the rest of the cannabinoids.

Another example of this phenomenon is limonene. Commonly found in lemons as well, limonene increases serotonin production in your body, which is why those fruity strains often elevate your mood like a fresh glass of lemonade.

While the main attraction for many people when it comes to terpenes is the sensory attributes, it’s important to realize that terpenes also play an important role in modulating the medicinal attributes of cannabis.

When you consume THC or CBD concentrates that were produced from whole plant extractions, you’ll typically see hundreds of additional trace compounds in the final product – that’s where the terpenes are. When you synthetically created a CBD product, those compounds do not exist. The benefit of whole plant extraction is that those additional terpenes are there to exponentially increase the effectiveness of the CBD molecules – these are known as 'full spectrum' extracts. The medicinal impact of all those extra terpenes and trace cannabinoids ensures a product that delivers results.

Eleven Common Terpenes in Cannabis

1. Limonene

Flavor / Aroma – Citrus

Found In – Lemon, Orange, Peppermint

Medicinal Uses – Mood regulation, Cancer, Bronchitis

2. Myrcene

Flavor / Aroma – Earthy, Musky, Fruity

Found In – Mango, Lemongrass, Thyme, Eucalyptus

Medicinal Uses – Insomnia, Inflammation

3. Linalool

Flavor / Aroma –Floral, Spicy

Found In – Lavender, Mint, Cinnamon

Medicinal Uses – Insomnia, Inflammation, Cancer

4. Alpha Bisabolol

Flavor / Aroma – Floral

Found In - Chamomile

Medicinal Uses – Inflammation, Anti-bacterial

5. Delta 3 Carene

Flavor / Aroma – Piney / earthy

Found In - Juniper

Medicinal Uses – Inflammation

6. Borneol

Flavor / Aroma – Earthy

Found In – Mint, Cinnamon, Wormwood

Medicinal Uses – Insomnia

7. Alpha-Pinene / Beta-Pinene

Flavor / Aroma – Pine

Found In – Dill, Basil, Parsley, Rosemary

Medicinal Uses – Inflammation

8. Eucalyptol

Flavor / Aroma – Spicy

Found In – Bay leaves, Tea Tree, Sage

Medicinal Uses – Congestion

9. Terpineol

Flavor / Aroma – Pine

Found In – Cloves, Lilacs, Caraway, Gingergrass

Medicinal Uses – Antioxidants

10. Caryophyllene

Flavor / Aroma – Hoppy

Found In – Beer, Thai Basil, Black Pepper

Medicinal Uses – Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Depression

11. Nerolidol

Flavor / Aroma – Woody

Found In – Ginger, Citronella

Medicinal Uses – Insomnia, Anti-fungal

The next time you purchase cannabis, take a closer look at those trichomes and really appreciate the terpenes contained inside! It's important to note that terpenes are important for both high-THC and high-CBD products. With regards to CBD products, we recommend Ambary Gardens for completely legal full spectrum, whole plant CBD products that actually contain terpenes.

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CBD is the specific cannabinoid found in cannabis that doesn't get you 'high' in the traditional sense, it simply delivers a myriad of health benefits. If you're interested in CBD, you need to learn more about our favorite CBD manufacturers. These companies have created products they can legally ship to the 48 states.

We proudly support healthy, honest brands based on their unparalleled commitment to delivering relief to their customers.

ABOUT KEY TO CANNABIS

We are cannabis advocates. We believe in the body’s natural ability to heal and recognize the synergistic value of nature’s remedies. It is our mission to spread wellness and love. We know everyone can achieve a better quality of life. You are just one product away…

CURIOUS IF CBD CAN HELP YOU?

CBD oil naturally treats hundreds different diseases...often BETTER than pharmaceuticals! Don’t believe us? We’ve put together an analysis of over 80+ published medical case studies so you can get the facts for FREE!

WHERE TO BUY SAFE CBD

CBD is the specific cannabinoid found in cannabis that doesn't get you 'high' in the traditional sense, it simply delivers a myriad of health benefits. If you're interested in CBD, you need to learn more about our favorite CBD manufacturers. These companies have created products they can legally ship to the 48 states.

We proudly support healthy, honest brands based on their unparalleled commitment to delivering relief to their customers.

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